STEVE ANDERSON ILLUSTRATIONS

Enriching the auto enthusiast's ownership experience, since 1996.

Another satisfied client... "Like a kid on Christmas Day!"

A bit of background on Steve Anderson...

I've been a car nut since childhood and decided early on to pursue a career in car design. Like most of us "car shaders", I attended Art Center College of Design and have since enjoyed employment with Volkswagen, Nissan and currently General Motors. Some of my career highlights have been to be involved with the creation of the New Beetle, Nissan's Z and Titan, GM's (Pontiac) Solstice, SoCal Belly Tanker and, most recently, the EcoJet supercar for Jay Leno.

The work you see here is the result of my pursuing the art of automotive illustration on an "after hours" basis. It started with my involvement in Zone 8 Porsche Club of America and an owner's request that create a sketch of his car. I soon landed on a sort of signature style which can best be described as "documentary". I try to tell a car's story and create something of a visual certificate of authenticity (in fact many owners have asked me to incorporate thier own Heritage Certificate or Manufacturers window sticker). I pursue this endeavor because I enjoy the cars and people I get to know.

Frequently asked questions...

What is it?

My illustrations are created as original art representing a specific owners car or collection.

Do you do any car?

I like to do what I reffer to as "cars that matter". Thankfully, my client-base has not let me down with such an amazing array of marques, body styles and eras. I've also done motorcycles and boats for some of the car clients as well.

What are the image options?

The standard profile is the most poular option and I also create two, three and multi-view illustrations depending upon the requirements of the intended placement or installation.

Are there options for customization?

Yes, each of these illustrations are completely unique to your car(s). If supplied & specified, I can layer an image of your window sticker, certificate of authenticity or original brochure into the image. If your car runs personalized plates (and many of my clients do), I can create an image of this to accompany the composition. Bottom line is that this is up to you and how you want to create a unique way of documenting and memorializing your car(s).

The illustration will be a gift, how does that work?

I can do one of two things, if you really want the finished piece to present to someone and have access to the car, I can walk you through how to locate and identify the details needed to complete. Otherwise, I can create a presentation-quality gift certificate which would allow the car's owner to work with me directly.

What do you need to get started?

I basically need the car's details to the extent you'd like listed in the illustration, a style choice (profile or multiple views) and a few images of the subject (if possible).

What is the process?

I do all of the foundation work and sprayouts using traditonal tools and methods such as airbrush, chalks, gouache paints and colored pencils. This work is then scanned and brought into Photoshop for balancing, hue adjustment and composition. The image is then recreated using an archival-spec / giclee printing process. This piece is then hand finished using Winsor & Newton Gouache paints and Prismacolor pencils. The entire process takes place over several days. In the case of a multi-view order, I will develop a line drawing composition which will be e mailed for approval prior to begining the rendering process. The images below outline the typical process.

Owner supplied image...

Another owner supplied image...

Line drawing submitted for owner approval...

The finished piece, framed and ready for display.

Do you offer a guarantee?

I stand behind my work and take pains to capture the unique beauty and style of your car(s). If you are not completely satisfied, I will do whatever necessary to mediate to situation including redoing the work. As you can see from the image below (a 6+ illustration client), I produce outstanding work at a fair price. Typically, 60% of my schedule consists of past clients.

What is the pricing?

All prints are priced at $40 each and are available framed at $149. For a custom illustration, basic profiles start at $349 for a non-framed piece and go up to $3,000+ for a muilti-view. It all depends on the car's era of production and the complexity of the illustration.